Jared Kushner, President-elect Donald Trump’s son-in-law, is expected to remain a pivotal figure in the administration’s Middle East policy, even without a formal position.
According to regional diplomats and Trump allies, Kushner’s established relationships with key leaders across the region will be instrumental as Trump prepares for his second term, reports CNN.
Leveraging Relationships in a New Era
Kushner’s deep connections with Middle Eastern leaders, built during Trump’s first term and maintained in recent years, are viewed as irreplaceable. “No one on the incoming team has what Jared has, and that is trust. He earned it,” said a regional diplomat familiar with Kushner’s work during his tenure as chief Middle East negotiator. This trust, developed over years, has been credited with facilitating historic agreements like the Abraham Accords.
While Kushner is unlikely to hold a formal title, sources suggest he will serve as an external advisor, offering guidance on Middle East affairs and briefing key officials. Kushner’s ongoing relationships with leaders like Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman (MBS) and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu are seen as critical assets in advancing Trump’s ambitious goals for the region.
Balancing Business and Diplomacy
Since leaving Washington, Kushner has largely exited politics, founding the investment fund Affinity Partners, which has received significant backing from Gulf sovereign wealth funds, including $2 billion from Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund. This economic relationship has drawn scrutiny, with critics questioning whether his financial interests could influence U.S. policy.
Some U.S. diplomats have expressed concerns about potential conflicts of interest. “Prioritizing Saudi Arabia’s prosperity because it could help the Trump family is a major concern,” said one diplomat, referencing the secrecy surrounding Kushner’s previous engagements with MBS.
Normalization Efforts Amid Conflict
A top priority for the incoming administration is the continuation of normalization efforts between Israel and Arab states, despite ongoing conflicts in Gaza and Lebanon. Kushner’s role in brokering the Abraham Accords, which normalized relations between Israel and the UAE during Trump’s first term, positions him as a key figure in advancing similar agreements.
However, Kushner’s recent comments on Gaza—calling it “waterfront property” with potential for economic development—have sparked outrage. Critics labeled his remarks as tone-deaf, given the immense suffering in the region. Analysts suggest Kushner will need to adopt a more empathetic tone to avoid alienating Arab leaders.
Kushner’s Close Ties with Saudi Arabia
Kushner’s close relationship with MBS, characterized by private conversations and late-night meetings, is expected to play a crucial role in Trump’s Middle East strategy. Despite criticism, this personal connection proved productive during Trump’s first term and is likely to be utilized again.
Trump’s recent call with MBS following his election victory, alongside a conversation with Netanyahu, signals the administration’s focus on strengthening U.S.-Saudi relations. Kushner’s established rapport with both leaders could facilitate discreet engagements to advance Trump’s goals.
New Team Dynamics
Trump’s newly appointed Middle East team includes former Arkansas Governor Mike Huckabee as ambassador to Israel and real estate developer Steve Witkoff as special envoy. How these figures collaborate with Kushner remains uncertain. Experts emphasize the importance of a unified approach, with one source cautioning that failing to work closely with Kushner would be “a gigantic mistake.”
Witkoff has already begun reaching out to regional leaders, reportedly consulting with Kushner in preparation for his role. Observers anticipate that Kushner’s influence will extend beyond informal advice, with the possibility of being dispatched on key missions.
Navigating Challenges in a Complex Region
Despite his informal role, Kushner’s relationships and track record are expected to be central to Trump’s Middle East policy. As the region grapples with ongoing conflicts and shifting alliances, his ability to navigate complex dynamics will be crucial to achieving Trump’s promises of peace and normalization.
Whether Kushner’s business ties and past controversies will overshadow his contributions remains to be seen, but his influence in shaping the administration’s approach to the Middle East is undeniable.
